Faro , Portugal

Gateway to Algarve: A Faro Walking Tour

Active

45m - 1h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Embark on a self-guided walking tour through Faro’s Old Town, where Moorish influences, maritime legends, and ghostly tales come alive. Trace the city’s resilient spirit as you explore centuries-old streets, grand arches, and sunlit plazas.

• Hear the heroic story of a WWII bomber lost at sea
• Walk through Largo da Sé’s historic charm
• Discover secrets of Igreja de São Pedro
• Stroll Faro Marina and uncover seafaring tales
• Learn how the Earl of Essex burned the city in 1596
• Encounter eerie legends and Faro’s hidden past
• Visit Arco do Repouso, tied to King Afonso III
• Explore Comur Faro, home to artisanal tinned fish

This atmospheric 45-minute tour is a hauntingly beautiful dive into Faro’s rich and mysterious past.

Available options

Gateway to Algarve: A Faro Walking Tour

What's included

Lifetime access to this tour in English before your booking date and after it

Offline access to audio, maps, and geodata

App for Android and iOS

Flexibility to explore at your own pace with a self-guided GPS tour

Directions to the starting point so that when you’re in the right place, the tour will start

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1 Pass by

Stroll by one of Faro’s most iconic landmarks. Built in 1812, it has marked the entrance to Faro’s Old Town since Moorish times.

Pass by what was once a Roman temple, has endured invasions, earthquakes, and fires and was transformed into a cathedral in 1251 after the Christian Reconquista.

Walk along what once was a crucial link to the sea, allowing fishermen, traders, and the odd smuggler to come and go.

Catch a glimpse as you pass by a memorial to the fishermen who saved the lives of American airmen who crashed their bomber in the second world war.

Pass under the arch where a maiden supposedly cursed the area near the arch, vowing that those who rested there would never find true peace.

Pass by this museum housed in a 1500s former convent and journey through Faro’s rich history.

Walk past this statue, dedicated to King Afonso III who played a pivotal role in Faro’s history during the Christian Reconquest.

Walk through this beautiful garden, a space that has been a central part of the city of Faro for centuries.

Pass by this historic church, named after a fisherman by trade and a prominent figure in early Christianity.

Peek at the iconic chapel, lined with the skulls and bones of over 1,000 monks, carefully arranged into patterns, creating a haunting yet strangely beautiful display.

What's not included

Smartphone and headphones

Personal expenses for attractions not included during the tour

Food and drink

Transportation

Available languages

Audio guide

Written guide

Important information

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

The total tour time includes walking the route and passing by the attractions

Meeting point

This tour starts at Arco da Vila, R. da Misericórdia 8, 8000-168 Faro, Portugal. Before arrival, please install the mobile app and use the code provided on your confirmation ticket. Detailed starting point instructions are available after downloading.

Important notes

VOICEMAP CODE
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Please check your email at the address you provided when you made this booking. You've been sent an eight character code you'll need to redeem your tour.
This code can be used by every member of your party. If you've booked for three people, for example, three people can download this tour using the same code.

DOWNLOAD INSTRUCTIONS
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Once you've received your code, please follow these steps:
Install the VoiceMap Audio Tours mobile app
Create an account
Select Tour Codes from the menu, then select Enter Codes
Enter your code then select Download Now

PLEASE NOTE
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You can download the tour at any time, before or after your booking date. It’s best to download the tour before you set off for the starting point.
This tour follows a set route and includes turn-by-turn directions. It works best if you start it in the right place and follow the directions from one location to the next.
When the download completes, you’ll see a screen with a photo of the starting point and directions to it. The red start button will become active when you are at the starting point.

Remember to bring your own headphones, unless you have booked a driving tour.

SUPPORT
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For technical support and other queries, please email support@voicemap.me

About Faro

Faro is the sunniest city in Portugal and the capital of the Algarve region. Known for its beautiful beaches, historic old town, and vibrant markets, Faro offers a unique blend of cultural heritage and natural beauty. It serves as the perfect starting point for exploring the stunning coastline and picturesque villages of the Algarve.

Top Attractions

Old Town (Cidade Velha)

The Old Town of Faro is a charming area with narrow streets, historic buildings, and vibrant squares. It's the heart of the city and a must-visit for its cultural and architectural heritage.

Historical 2-3 hours Free to explore

Ria Formosa Natural Park

Ria Formosa is a stunning coastal lagoon and a protected natural park. It's home to a diverse range of wildlife and offers beautiful landscapes and water activities.

Nature Half day to full day Free to explore, boat tours cost around €15-20

Faro Cathedral (Catedral de Faro)

The Faro Cathedral is a beautiful example of Baroque architecture and a significant historical landmark. It offers stunning views of the city and the Ria Formosa.

Historical 1 hour Free entry, donations welcome

Arco da Vila

The Arco da Vila is a historic archway that leads to the Old Town. It's a symbol of Faro and offers a glimpse into the city's rich history.

Historical 15-30 minutes Free

Faro Marina

The Faro Marina is a vibrant area with restaurants, bars, and shops. It's a great place to relax, enjoy a meal, and watch the boats come and go.

Entertainment 1-2 hours Free to explore, prices vary for dining and drinks

Must-Try Local Dishes

Cataplana de Marisco

A traditional Portuguese seafood dish cooked in a copper pot called a cataplana. It's filled with a variety of fresh seafood, tomatoes, onions, and spices.

Main Course Contains seafood, can be made gluten-free

Bacalhau à Brás

A classic Portuguese dish made with shredded codfish, onions, potatoes, and eggs. It's a flavorful and hearty meal.

Main Course Contains fish, can be made gluten-free

Piri-Piri Chicken

Grilled chicken marinated in a spicy piri-piri sauce. It's a popular dish in the Algarve region.

Main Course Contains chicken, can be made gluten-free

Pastel de Nata

A traditional Portuguese custard tart with a flaky pastry crust. It's a sweet and creamy treat.

Dessert Contains dairy and eggs, can be made gluten-free

Popular Activities

Boat tours Surfing Hiking Beach relaxation Spa treatments Dining by the water Sightseeing Visiting historic sites

Best Time to Visit

June to September

This is the best time to visit Faro for beach activities and outdoor exploration. The weather is warm and sunny, perfect for enjoying the coastline and water sports.

25°C to 35°C 77°F to 95°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Portuguese
Widely spoken: English, Spanish
English: Moderately spoken

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT+1 (Western European Time)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Faro is generally a safe destination for travelers. However, as with any tourist destination, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure
• Use licensed taxis
• Be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas

Getting there

By air

Faro Airport • 4 km from city center

By train

Faro Station

By bus

Faro Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

The bus network in Faro is efficient and covers most parts of the city and surrounding areas. Buses are a convenient and affordable way to get around.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Bolt, FreeNow

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Old Town (Cidade Velha) Marina Farol

Day trips

Tavira

50 km from Faro • Full day

Tavira is a charming town with a rich history, beautiful architecture, and stunning beaches. It's a great day trip from Faro for those looking to explore more of the Algarve.

Lagos

100 km from Faro • Full day

Lagos is a vibrant coastal town known for its beautiful beaches, historic sites, and adventure activities. It's a great day trip for those looking to combine relaxation and excitement.

Monchique

80 km from Faro • Full day

Monchique is a picturesque mountain town known for its natural beauty, hot springs, and scenic views. It's a great day trip for those looking to escape the coast and enjoy the countryside.

Festivals

Faro International Film Festival • June Feast of São João • June 23-24 Faro Wine Festival • August

Pro tips

Visit the Old Town early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the best lighting for photos.
Explore the local markets for fresh produce, traditional products, and unique souvenirs.
Try the local seafood dishes, particularly those made with fresh fish and shellfish.
Rent a bike or take a boat tour to explore the Ria Formosa Natural Park and its stunning landscapes.
Learn a few basic Portuguese phrases to enhance your experience and connect with locals.